Star out of Tampa on 3/11/12. We booked a stay and cruise using the Howard Johnson's Riverwalk. A very nice location due to proximity to the river and activities, and while somewhat apprehensive due to a few reviews of the hotels agreement with the college for housing, we had no problems. The few college students there were housed on isolated floors. Carlos at the front desk is wonderful. We arrived early on Friday and signed up for the 10:30am shuttle on Sunday to the port due to the fact we had 15 people going.This was smooth and complimentary. Returning was just as smooth so highly recommended.

Embarking was OK due to the suite classification for some, however NCL needs to investigate a better system for opening the initial credit account. This trip was for all of our children and Grandchildren and it seemed more complicated than it needed to be when we establish the one credit card for all the rooms. We had asked for a wheel chair for embarking, and validated twice via phone it would be available. We were concerned with the distance for my husband, but it didn't arrive, and he felt fine walking on. We did see one coming and hesitated at the escalator to see if it was his, buy the security officer was less than helpful when we paused to ask and we just went on. I would like to say this is the only place we encountered a lapse in hospitality and manners.

We were escorted to Cagneys by 11:30am and were impressed with both the service, and the Carbonara. The Caesar salad was good also.We were relaxed and enjoyed the break knowing we were ready to go, and spent the rest of meal chatting and did not feel rushed. By 1:00pm I walked to our cabin on deck 12 and it was ready, Armond and Henry were there and made us welcome. The room was clean, the bed comfortable, and noise was minimal. My daughter and grandchildren were in 12018 and we never heard a peep. The baths are very nice, plenty of room and well stocked. Read more